On Monday, we will kick off Air Quality Awareness Week with Gov. [Nathan] Deal to educate Georgians about the health effects of air pollution. It is a time to consider the meaningful actions we all can take to improve outdoor air quality.

Although air quality in Georgia is improving, population growth has put more demand on energy use and more cars on the roads. With half of smog-forming emissions in many areas throughout the state coming from vehicle tailpipes, it’s up to all Georgians to do their part to reduce poor air quality.

Air Quality Awareness Week is a reminder to residents and workplaces that small changes can make an immediate impact on the air we all breathe. There are a few easy ways to make a difference: sign up for smog alerts at www.CleanAirCampaign.org to find out when air quality is expected to be poor. Commit to carpooling, vanpooling, riding your bike, walking or riding transit to your job. Avoid unnecessary idling and combine your trips and errands.

There are a wealth of free services and programs to help you start using alternatives to driving alone. Call 1-877-9-GA-OPTIONS or visit www.GACommuteOptions.com to learn more.

Your actions can make a difference, during Air Quality Awareness Week and every week. Please help us all breathe a little easier.

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